Maldives Minister of Foreign Affairs, Abdulla Shahid has discussed enhancing Maldives’ bilateral and multilateral relationships with Egypt and Grenada, with his counterparts in both countries.

During his telephone conversation with the Minister of Foreign Affairs of Egypt Sameh Shoukry, the foreign minister extended appreciation in light of the continuous and unwavering support the Egyptian government has extended to the Maldives, both bilaterally and internationally throughout the years.

The pair expanded on the sturdy and historical bilateral ties Maldives and Egypt have enjoyed and shed light on the recent international issues of importance.

Further, FM Shahid and Minister Shoukry also briefed each other on the updates of the situation revolving around the ongoing global Covid-19 pandemic in their respective countries and emphasized on the measures that have been placed under response and recovery efforts.

Both ministers expressed commitment to maintain the strong bond of cooperation between Maldives and Egypt and reiterated keenness to enhance the collaborative partnership, bilaterally as well as through multilateral organizations and mechanisms.

Further calling on the Minister for Foreign Affairs, International Business and CARICOM Affairs of Grenada, Oliver Joseph, FM Shahid shared experiences as a Small Island Developing State on the area of addressing impacts of the Covid-19 pandemic, as well as priorities and challenges facing Maldives due to the global pandemic.

Minister Joseph was briefed on the ongoing recovery efforts against the pandemic in the Maldives as well.

The ministers of Maldives and Grenada also touched down on the challenges facing both countries due to the pandemic and discussed the measures that have been put in place by their respective countries in order to contain and curb the spread of the virus.

In addition, the pair explored avenues through which the strong bilateral and multilateral ties between both countries may be enhanced, by increasing cooperation in a wide range of areas of mutual interest including tourism.

During the call, the ministers also shed light on the importance of cooperative efforts and working together to collaborate in addressing the vulnerabilities particularly faced by SIDS in the multilateral system.

Ending the call, both ministers expressed confidence in continued cooperation and support between Maldives and Grenada, in the years to come.